DINNER ladies stepped out on Sunday to help break a little boy's lonely world of silence.

Seven welfare assistants from Hindley Green Community Primary School went on a woodland walk to boost the chances of five-year-old David Horner taking a therapeutic swim with dolphins.

David, of Rutland Road, Shakerley, lost his speech when he was struck down by a mystery illness at the age of two.

Now his hearing is starting to return and mum, Paula, believes the time is right for him to have intensive therapy.

A specialist at Leigh Infirmary has suggested a world-renowned pool therapy treatment used for children with brain injuries could assist his speech.

And dinner ladies Mandy Donagher, Karen Shaw, Brenda Seddon, Margaret Abbott, Sharon Speakman, Marion Doxey and Shelley Dyson have decided to stretch out on a sponsored walk through Hindley's Borsdane Wood to give David a helping hand.

Karen said: "David is hard work, but he's a lovely little lad. We decided because he is a pupil at our school we should do all we can to help him get his speech back."

Paula said: "I'd like to thank the team for their concern and effort, it is really appreciated."

Anyone who would like to help with funding raising ideas can contact her on 01942 888386.